Rugby's 'World League' a step closer as Six Nations agree to due diligence

World Rugby's proposed "Nations League" appears to have been given a boost, with the major European nations agreeing to do due diligence on the revamp of the game.

After the six major European unions (England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland, France and Italy) appeared to be apprehensive over the new proposal due to TV rights, World Rugby will allow the northern hemisphere giants to view commercially sensitive documents and figures.

The northern hemisphere nations had previously been against any proposed concept, with the fear of a promotion/relegation system financially disastrous should they drop out of the top tier.

World Rugby last month announcedan investment of $10 billion over 12 years, hoping to see the top northern and southern hemisphere nations compete against each other on a regular basis in between Rugby World Cups.

In a statement released overnight though, World Rugby say they have allowed access to materials that could help determine the viability of a proposed nations league.

"The council met today and discussed the various options available, which involve the future structure and delivery of the championship," the Six Nations said overnight.

"We will continue our due diligence in relation to the World Rugby Nations Championship proposal.

"This will be done under a non-disclosure agreement, so we will not be providing any further comment at this stage. We will continue to look at all the other options available."

Any changes to World Rugby's structure are expected to be announced at the organisation's council meeting on May 22.

Jacob Stockdale runs in to score for Ireland against Scotland
Source: Associated Press